Explore the extraordinary journey of Cyndi Lauper, from her troubled childhood to becoming a music icon. Discover how her early struggles shaped her artistic identity and fueled her passion for music. Learn about her defiant rise as a solo artist and her advocacy for women and the LGBTQ+ community. Cyndi's creative evolution is highlighted through her groundbreaking music videos and her impactful work on Broadway. The podcast celebrates her resilience and lasting legacy, showcasing the true colors of an artist dedicated to making a difference.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Childhood Fashion and Beatles Influence
Cindy Lauper dyed her hair green at age nine for St. Patrick's Day and embraced eccentric fashion despite bullying.
She and her sister mimicked The Beatles and learned songwriting and harmony through play.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Escape from Abuse to Freedom
Cindy escaped an abusive home and left at 17 with essentials including Yoko Ono's Grapefruit.
She found safety with her sister's queer community, starting a new life in music and support.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Early Band and Vocal Reveal
Cindy's first solo band Blue Angel released an album, but it failed commercially.
She impressed widely with her vocal range during a live broadcast in 1981, hinting at future solo success.
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Closing out another fabulous Pride Month, we’re taking a look at someone who’s always been a friend and ally to the LGBTQ+ community - Cyndi Lauper. Born in New York, in the early 50s, Cyndi feels out-of-step with her surroundings. Raised in a home with an abusive stepfather, she escapes and sets out on her own. But to do what? After failing in a series of unfulfilling odd jobs, Cyndi decides to follow her first love - music. After a shaky start with a couple of failed bands, Cyndi goes solo. Thanks to that one-of-a-kind voice of hers, and unique technicolor appearance (just in time for advent of MTV), Cyndi Lauper’s singing career reaches the stratosphere. But life at the top of the record biz just isn’t enough for her. She realizes there are way more important things to fight for - her integrity as an artist, and disenfranchised people everywhere. Turns out, these were the “true colors” of the girl who just wanted to have fun. In turn - she cemented her legacy forever.
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